Sue Vonne Neeley

Sue Vonne Neeley passed away on Thursday, April 14, 2022 at the age of 70. She was the daughter of Howell and Lenora Neeley of Oklahoma City. Sue was survived by her two sons, Brandon (Belit) and Kamren (Lizette). Sue had three grandchildren: Camryn and Olivia Neeley, as well as Paulo Taravati. Sue also had four nieces she loved dearly: Mundee, Traci, Kami and Brandi. Sue had a strong faith who would often quote scripture from memory. At the same time, Sue was a free spirit who loved music, pets, and politics. She worked for over 40 years as a criminal defense investigator and paralegal. Toward the end of her career, she dedicated her passion and efforts to support the Kansas Coalition Against the Death Penalty and often wrote defense mitigation reports to support youth offenders in hopes that they would have a second chance at life. In addition to a career in law, Sue was a dedicated single mother. She made sure to attend all football games, and would make time to go to all the plays, open houses, and anything her kids were involved in. Until the day she died, she told Brandon and Kamren that she was proud of them and that she loved them. Aside from being a mom and family focused, Sue had some unique gifts. She was the type of person any old stranger would approach and share their life story. She could sing and play piano. But probably most important was her sense of humor. She could find a way to laugh in the most difficult of situations. And that laugh was infectious. No matter how appropriate or inappropriate, Sue had a way to brighten people’s day. Sue was strong, faith filled, funny, and always said one thing: “When I die, I don’t want a funeral, I want a party.” So, if you knew Sue, please don’t shed a tear as she is now in the kingdom of heaven. Instead, share a story, laugh, and be reminded of her impact on this earth. Memorial Service will be at 1:00 pm, Saturday, May 21, 2022, at Downing & Lahey East Mortuary. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to one of two organizations: The Kansas Coalition Against the Death Penalty, P.O. Box 2065, Topeka, KS 66601; or The Kansas Humane Society, 3313 N. Hillside St., Wichita, KS 67219.